FTA calls for rewards for carbon cutting hauliers

The Freight Transport Association is calling for carbon-cutting hauliers to be rewarded with cheaper tolls.

The FTA has asked its members to remain committed to the carbon reduction agenda and is urging politicians to reward this commitment through incentive schemes, such as reducing the cost of tolls on the Severn Crossing.

Speaking ahead of the Welsh Carbon Conference, James Hookham, the FTA’s director of policy, said: “The logistics sector has already made great inroads into recording, reporting and reducing its carbon footprint, both in terms of greener vehicles and greater fuel efficiency.

“By providing rewards, like lover tolls, for vehicle operators, politicians can put down the stick and apply a little more carrot.”

The FTA is also calling for a fourth incentive to create the 4R reward scheme.

Hookham added: “Applying a disincentive, like the recent increase in fuel duty, may work for motorists who have a choice, but for commercial vehicle operators they don’t have that luxury.

“Instead, politicians should be thinking about other more practical ways of reducing carbon emissions. That’s why we’re suggesting this 4R approach and why we’re keen to develop it further and more formally so that we can make it work for everyone.”